An objective-type online examination consisting of 100 questions (English: 30, Quant: 35, Reasoning: 35) with a total duration of 60 minutes. There is a sectional timing of 20 minutes for each of the three sections.
Screening nature only. Marks obtained are not counted for the final merit list, but candidates must clear sectional and overall cut-offs.
Preliminary Examination100 marks · 60 minutes (20 minutes per section)
- 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer penalty
Preparation Timeline
Suggested phase-by-phase study plan
Phase 1: Foundation Building (Prelims + Mains)Months 1-3
Clear concepts of Quant, Reasoning, and Grammar. Build calculation speed.
Memorize tables (up to 30), squares (up to 50), cubes (up to 20), and fractional values for Quant speed.
Solve 5 sets of Puzzles and Seating Arrangements every day.
Read The Hindu or Indian Express editorial daily to improve reading speed and vocabulary.
Clear basics of Arithmetic chapters (Percentage, Ratio, Time & Work) using standard books or videos.
Phase 2: Speed & Prelims FocusMonths 4-5
Maximize score in Prelims by mastering time management and attempting mock tests.
Take one Prelims Mock Test daily and analyze it thoroughly for 1 hour to identify weak spots.
Practice high-speed calculation topics daily: Simplification, Quadratic Equations, Number Series.
Start studying daily current affairs and banking awareness concepts simultaneously.
Transition to extremely tough Mains level questions, Data Analysis, and typing practice.
Solve High-Level DI (Caselets, Variable based) and Logical Reasoning questions (Critical Reasoning).
Revise the last 6 months of Current Affairs capsules provided by standard banking portals.
Type one Essay and one Letter twice a week on a computer keyboard to practice for the Descriptive paper.
Take one full-length Mains Mock Test weekly (It builds stamina for the exhausting 3.5 hour exam).
Exam Details
Concise and stable information snapshot
Overview
IBPS PO is a premier banking examination conducted to recruit Probationary Officers and Management Trainees for major Public Sector Banks in India. The recruitment process involves three rigorous phases: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination (Objective + Descriptive), and a Personal Interview.
Posts
Probationary Officer (PO)
Management Trainee (MT)
Eligibility
Educational QualificationA Degree (Graduation) in any discipline from a University recognized by the Govt. Of India
Age Limit20 to 30 years (as on the cut-off date specified in the notification) years
Age RelaxationSC/ST: +5 years | OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): +3 years | PwBD: +10 years | Ex-Servicemen: +5 years
NationalityCitizen of India, Subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated with the intention of permanently settling in India